The elk hunt with my dad is fast approaching. The 6.5 PRC's really like the Norma 143gr Bondstrike and the Berger EOL 156gr Hybrid. Of those two, which would you choose for guided, private ranch, likely 300 yards or less. Any explanation of your choices would be welcomed.
Which ammo would you go with for elk?
- Thread starter doctorjj
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tydaws
Well-Known Member
I don't have specific experience with either, but within 300 yards, I'd bet you're in good shape either way. I'd go with whatever shoots better. If they shoot exactly the same, I'd go with the bonded bullet.
156 Berger.
The_Whitetail_kid
Well-Known Member
156 Berger
memtb
Well-Known Member
I can't, with clear conscience, answer the poll!
While I would not use either of the two bullets listed, and may not agree with those choosing to use them…..I will not call them stupid!
If I had no other option, used under the conditions listed….the 156 Hybrid! As cup and core bullets shed a lot of weight….I want to start out with the highest practical bullet weight!
But that's just me! memtb
While I would not use either of the two bullets listed, and may not agree with those choosing to use them…..I will not call them stupid!
If I had no other option, used under the conditions listed….the 156 Hybrid! As cup and core bullets shed a lot of weight….I want to start out with the highest practical bullet weight!
But that's just me! memtb
I did a lot of research regarding this topic and I initially had considered 300 win mag or 300 wsm, which I already own guns in both. But after the research, and mostly based on the guide's recommendation, I bought a couple of 6.5 PRC's. It will be a combo hunt also for mule deer. The guide actually recommended 6.5 Creedmoor and said they had been having tremendous success with that caliber on elk and he steered me away from a true magnum. I suspected, although he didn't say this, that a lot of clients don't shoot magnums very well. I knew we could and do, but again, simply went with the suggestion and my research seemed to indicate that given reasonable distances, proper discipline for shot selection and good shot, the 6.5's should work very well.
Fwiw the norma 143 is bonded
memtb
Well-Known Member
Yes…but still a cup and core! Perhaps a better cup and core……but still a cup and core! memtb
adk hunter
Well-Known Member
The only reason I am going to vote in your poll is I drooled coffee on my chin with choice #3.
Same here, 3 sealed my interest, although I voted for the 156gr Berger. I have a ton of it for use in both 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC and 6.5-280 Ackley.
First, I envy anyone who hunts with their Dad. My Dad was not a hunter; USN retired and was too busy providing for us. I did a lot of fishing with him, but I never had the opportunity to take him out hunting before his passing. Have fun and treasure the moments.
I do not have 6.5 PRC, but I have a .264 WM. I also have a 6.5X55 Swedish Mauser and 6.5 CM. The guide is correct; the 6.5 CM is capable at 300Y, with the right bullet and shot placement, of course, but it would not be my preference. Between the .26 Cal you noted, I would pick the PRC over the CM. I prefer .30 (I have -06/Gibbs, 2 .300 WSM, 3 .300 WSM, and .30 LARA) over .26 Cal. I would rather see a hunter/shooter that can handle the 6.5 CM effectively/confidently than a mediocre one with magnums.
Since you did a lot of research, do not complicate it unnecessarily. They are two different bullet designs, but either bullet will perform on elk at your range parameters. It boils down to personal preference; Berger bullets are fragmenting bullets, and you may or may not get a pass-through. If you want a pass-through, go with the Bondstrike. The beauty of Berger bullets is that they do not need a pass-through to be effective. Another advantage is you reduce the risk of shooting what is behind the target. These are two attributes that led me to switch to Berger. I was a long-time Nosler NP, BT, and AB.
Happy safe hunting.
Ed
That's Great ….. Having a Good Hunting Adventure with Dad is Priceless for you Both. I sense your are considering your dads best interests & chance for success.
Use the rifle caliber & bullet combination that you each are most Comfortable, Proficient, & have Confidence in using.
Have a Great Hunt !!!
Either of your 6.5 bullet choice's would work given the above criteria.
I would have recommended "Other" if it was a choice selection.
Also don't rule out your other rifle caliber
Options you or Dad own. Especially if they
Are Proven Deadly favorites.
Dr. Vette
Well-Known Member
I would have taken the 300s if I already owned them.
Of the two choices I'd go with the Norma Bondstrike.
A tough bonded bullet or a good monometal are always my choices for elk.
Of the two choices I'd go with the Norma Bondstrike.
A tough bonded bullet or a good monometal are always my choices for elk.
